WESTON HIGH SCHOOL TEAM PROCEEDS TO NATIONALS
Meriden – The Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) hosted its statewide 2026 High School Mock Trial Competition from December 2025 through March 2026, bringing together students from across the state to demonstrate their advocacy skills, legal knowledge, and professionalism in the courtroom.
Organized by the CBA’s Civics Education Committee, the annual competition featured high school teams competing in simulated courtroom trials. Teams that successfully argued both sides of their case in the regional rounds advanced to a statewide playoff tournament, culminating in the championship round between Weston High School and West Hartford's William H. Hall High School.
The final round took place on March 19 in the Connecticut Supreme Court and centered on a criminal case involving a drug overdose incident, challenging students to navigate complex legal and factual issues. The teams were required to analyze evidence, develop persuasive arguments, and think quickly under pressure during direct and cross-examinations. Ananya Rajesh of Weston High School reflected on the challenges of acting as a witness in the case, noting that the experience strengthened her ability to think critically and respond confidently in the moment.
Connecticut Supreme Court Associate Justice William H. Bright, Jr., who presided over the trial, praised both teams' performances and the high caliber of their work; he compared their advocacy to that of experienced attorneys.
Weston High School emerged as the 2026 state champion and will go on to represent Connecticut at the National High School Mock Trial Championship in May.
“Each year, the mock trial program brings the law to life for high school and middle school students across Connecticut. In addition to building their advocacy skills, the students learn the principles and processes that define our legal system,” stated CBA Civics Education Committee Co-Chair Jonathan Weiner. “This knowledge and skill set is valuable no matter which career path the students choose after graduation. The program has been a pipeline to the legal profession for many of the students, and we’re always happy to welcome them back as volunteer coaches and judges.”
The Connecticut Bar Association’s Mock Trial Program plays a vital role in advancing civics education by giving students hands-on experience with the judicial system. Through months of preparation and competition, participants gain not only a deeper understanding of the law, but also lifelong skills that will serve them in future academic and professional pursuits. Learn more about the mock trial program at
ctbar.org/mocktrial.